Master of Science in Management Information Systems

The Master of Science (MS) in Management Information Systems (MIS) program is available to those who have completed an undergraduate degree in business or a closely related field. The program offers admission in the fall only. Students without a business background may apply to the program but will be required to take a two-course sequence: MGG 501 and 502, introduction to Business I and II. These courses may be taken concurrently with the MIS curriculum requiring an 18- or 19-credit-hour program each semester. This additional requirement seeks to ensure that all graduates have an understanding of the functional areas of business in which they will be applying their new MIS skills.

Management information systems is the application of computer related technology to managerial programs. There is of course a heavy technical component in the coursework, but the program also provides students with the broad perspective needed to advance in their managerial careers.

Students will explore the application of computerized information systems, including Web technologies, to run a modern technology-based business. The Web, via e-commerce, has created a revolution in consumer-to-business and business-to-business transactions. The business analyst of the future must be able to identify how Web-based technologies can be applied to solving existing and new problems and how to leverage technology to realize strategic opportunities. Students will receive exposure to networking and data communications, database management systems, distributed computing and to various systems analysis and design development strategies.

Career Opportunities

The thrust of this program is to provide an individual with the knowledge to function in a management consultancy firm, as a part of a functional business unit, as an e-business entrepreneur or as part of a traditional information systems group. Graduates of the program are expected to fall into one of the following career paths: information systems consultant/analyst with a large consulting firm, systems analyst within a traditional information systems department or a systems analyst within a functional unit such as marketing, human resources finance or operations.

The program affords students the opportunity to earn external certifications in areas such as information systems auditing, networking (CISCO, Microsoft) or databases (Oracle) while pursuing the MS in MIS program. Many students have taken advantage of these options and found their career opportunity vastly enhanced.

State-of-the-Art Laboratory Facilities

The department maintains a state-of-the-art networking and information assurance laboratory which is supported by grants from CISCO and the Department of Defense.

Student Organizations

The Management Information Systems Association (MISA) sponsors speakers, facility tours and career strategy meetings to provide MIS students with more information about career options.

Note: The MS in MIS program is a full-time, one-year residency program.